Get ready for an amazing day of fun and fundraising on Saturday 28 September 2024, as University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust walks for its wards.
Join hundreds of dedicated walkers for a lovely 3km, brisk 5km or active 10km walk through the stunning grounds of Upton Country Park and House in Poole.
Your sponsorship will make a huge difference to everyone who receives care from the Royal Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch Hospitals – and there’s no better way to thank our NHS heroes who work tirelessly to care for our community.
Whether you’re walking for a specific ward or department that influenced your life or just to make memories, every penny you raise will help University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity make a world of difference to thousands of patients across Dorset.
After exploring Upton Country Park’s picturesque scenery, participants will be treated to a couple of slices of complimentary pizza.
Loved ones who are not taking part in a walk are welcome to bring their own food for a lovely picnic while enjoying live music, entertainment, balloon art, face painting and a local makers’ market. Even the iconic Gully Bear will be stepping out in support of our hospitals!
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity public fundraising officer, Amy Beauchamp, said the charity is excited to see walkers, families and friends come together to make Walk for Wards bigger and better than ever.
Amy said: “Walk for Wards is more than just a walk – it’s a great opportunity for participants to invite their friends, family, work colleagues, community groups and four-legged companions to have fun and raise much-needed funds for our hospitals.
“This event is a chance to reflect and say thanks for everything that NHS staff and volunteers have done and continue to do to support the thousands of people who depend on our care every year.
“In 2023, we saw over 330 people taking part in Walk for Wards and over £24,000 raised for wards and departments across the trust. This support has meant the world to our NHS heroes, who work hard every day to care for patients and their families at our hospitals.
“We’re hopeful that even more people will show their support at this year and bring their loved ones along for a picnic as they celebrate with us on Saturday 28 September, the wards and departments that make our hospitals truly unique!”
Our main event sponsor, Hot Radio, will bring all the catchy beats to keep your feet moving and going a step further by also participating in the event.
Hot Radio’s commercial director, Alan Smith, said the station’s family of Hot Walkers – a team of presenters, staff, volunteers and listeners – are excited to be supporting University Hospitals Dorset’s BEACH Appeal by participating in Walk for Wards again this year.
Alan said: “Our local NHS hospitals are always there to support patients in need and their families, helping Dorset flourish and thrive.
“It means so much to us to be able to give that support back by giving our all at the Walk for Wards event again this year.
“Last year, we raised a phenomenal £6,155.10 as our Hot Walkers came together to support University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.
“We hope to raise £10,000 to support The BEACH Appeal and uplift the services so many people in our community depend on. Let’s go above and beyond for our local hospitals and NHS staff that go the extra mile for us!”
All Walk for Wards 2024 routes are accessible for people of all ages and abilities. You can walk or run at your own pace to spot hidden gems hidden in Upton Country Park.
Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children.
Register for the Walk for Wards today and take your first step towards supporting life-changing care!